Creature Nature Workshop I
,2017
«OUTSIDE-IN – How to Make Space Talk» 16.10. – 20.10.2017
In the workshop OUTSIDE-IN, we will connect the Parameters of the creativ(e) structur(e) (CS) with the classical elements fire (light), air (wind), earth (space) and water (sound) – additionally we will include the human as fifth element. We will explore the question how to transport the specific qualities of nature into an interior space by the use of scenographic tools to create spatial images (Raumbilder). Furthermore, we intent to investigate the possible added value in the sense of reassessment, which is created by transformation of nature into (inner) space. The workshop aims by using creativ(e) structur(e) and its Parameters to develop a holistic parkour that causes new types of interactions between humans, nature, space and time.
Filter 4, an old cistern located on the Bruderholz quarter in Basel, will be the workshop location. Architects Vischer & Fueter erected the former slow filter plant from 1903 to 1905. A large part of Basel’s households was supplied with drinking water from there. The plant covers an area of 1,600 sqm and consists of two chambers at 800 sqm each. In 2006, it was closed due to the City of Basel consuming less water. Shortly after Filter 4 was discovered as a unique space that began to formulate a concept for a cultural conversion. The result is a seasonal venue for modern and contemporary art with a focus on sculpture, installation, projection and performance, the so-called «filter4culture affairs». Since the opening 2011, Filter 4 has shown exhibitions and space-encompassing installations as well as interdisciplinary projects, new music, choral concerts, theatre and concert productions.
Regarding the four natural elements the location of Filter 4 presents an interesting spot. The cistern lies underneath the earth and is surrounded by it. The space used to contain water, but is now dried out. It is not possible to light fire and since the space has no windows there is no natural light. The space is full of air, but there is never wind. Fog is possible – but are clouds unthinkable?! And which role could the human play in this historic location – and how could the visitors be included in the spatial installation?
We will investigate how the elements can be set up to a spatial holistic and content-consistent «Gesamtkunstwerk» – the elements wind and fire could play a major role, since they were banned from the space. Following the slogan «creating by experiment», tools and media could be lights, projectors, over-head projectors, torches, loud speakers, sound cubes, mobile phone sound speaker, cameras, fans etc.
The aim is to create and realize a scenography, which is quoting or at least referring to the classical elements and to design an artistic conversion from music, film, audio and text to an accessible spatial installation. At the end of the day we all would like to see your conceptual work being performed on site and shown to the public (vernissage) on Thursday, 19th October. Based on the 5 design parameters (creative structure), the Filter IV void should be transformed to an accessible, walkable installation staged with light, sound, media-installation, based on a storytelling which features the 4 elements which fuels OUTSIDE–IN. The training- and coaching effect should be to translate and transform the Filter IV void into a scenographic setting staging «creature-nature» or its artistic associative interpretation.
The workshop is lead by Prof. Uwe R. Brückner, scenographer and lecturer of Studio Scenography & Exhibition Design, in collaboration with scenographer Martina Ehleiter, light expert Rolf Derrer and sound expert Ramon de Marco.
